Ouiam Charkani El Hassani on bringing fun to motoring journeys with kids.
Every mother knows the agony of long car trips, when you have a free-spirited, wild, and energetic little one on board! Being stuck in traffic with a child is the worst possible nightmare. Hearing those complaints, from the back seat of the car, can sometimes be excruciating, especially when you are trying to focus on the road or find your way on the map.
What if I told you I have a magical, FREE, and entertaining solution? Driving with your child will never be the same again!
The solution is: PODCASTS! Yes, that’s right, podcasts that are especially tailored for kids. They are free, portable, you can download them on your phone and you can listen to them anytime you want: in the car, at home or even on an aeroplane. They are engaging and educational, kids can learn all kinds of stuff: science, history, ethics and more. They are an amazing source for new vocabulary. They are screen free, but still get the job done and are a great distraction for when you want some quiet time.
As screen time concerns are on the rise, many parents – me included – are turning to podcasts as a fun and educational way to engage kids without screens. But it can be a challenge to find good stuff that is also appropriate.
For the past two years my five-year-old and I have been enjoying a number of amazing podcasts. Yes, even I enjoy them! So, I compiled a list of some of the best that we’ve listened to and loved.
Disney Story Central: Here you will find all the animated Disney movies turned into podcasts. Each is about 15-20 minutes long, and is great for kids aged three and above.
Elmo’s Adventures in Spending, Saving and Sharing: This was our FAVOURITE podcast when my son was a little younger. I have to say: I love Elmo (and his dad, Louis, in this podcast). Louis teaches Elmo through different episodes, very gently and positively, all about money; the meaning of cost and value, how to save, how to earn… etc. It uses simple language, so is appropriate for young listeners.
Sesame Street: Again, Elmo is a favourite here. The show tackles some of the sensitive issues younger kids might deal with, such as feelings, going to school and even bullying, in a fun and easy way. Great for younger kids as well as older ones.
Circle Round: Each episode is a story or a tale, told in a beautiful way. They’re about 20 minutes long, and features stories from around the world. Each has something to learn.
Story Pirates: A bunch of pirates in a ship, dealing with different issues, while they find a way to tell stories written and sent by kids who listen to the show. Very funny and out of the box. (Age four and older.)
But Why: For all the curious kids out there, who can’t seem to stop asking questions. It might be a little too complicated for younger kids, but definitely great for over fives.
Brains On: Similar to “But Why”, the show takes scientific questions submitted by kids, and answers them with the help of experts. The only difference is that this is for slightly older kids, so I would say six and above.
Wow in the World: I saved the best for last; this is MY ultimate favourite, I enjoy it as much as my son does. The hosts – Mindy and Guy Raz – make all the difference. They are so funny and interesting! Every episode tackles the latest news in science and technology, in a way that is very enjoyable for kids, five and older, and their parents too!
Chanelmama
